How Do Muslims Worship in the Mosque?

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Muslims pray in congregation in a mosque, and they do so facing towards the Kaaba in Mecca. The person leading the prayer is called an imam and is chosen as per his knowledge of the Holy Quran. The rest of the people stand behind the imam in straight rows and follow him. Behind the imam, in the first row, is a person who corrects him if he makes a mistake.

In Islam, prayer in congregation is known to have more spiritual and social benefits when compared to praying by yourself. While congregational prayer in the mosque is encouraged for men, it is not necessary for women. By offering the five daily prayers in the mosque, Muslim men receive a reward that is 25 times greater than offering prayer at home. The holy day for Muslims is Friday and it is compulsory for men to offer the afternoon prayer in congregation on this day of the week. Muslims are required to take a break from work and head to the mosque to offer this special prayer, which is made up of a sermon, followed by two units or rakats of congregational prayer. People are free to get back to work once the Friday prayer is over.